Hydroquinone is also known as benzene-1,4-diol or quinol and is a common ingredient in skin lightening creams. It can also be used as a photographic developer, an antioxidant, and a rust inhibitor. It is commonly found in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, ink, and food industries.
When rubber is exposed to hydroquinone, common types of failure include reduced elasticity, brittleness, discoloration, and cracking. These failures can be caused by the chemical reacting with the rubber material and causing a breakdown of its molecular structure. Additionally, hydroquinone can cause the rubber material to become more susceptible to environmental factors such as ozone, UV light, and heat.
HNBR, or hydrogenated NBR, is created by modifying the properties of NBR to increase the materials resistance to ozone, many chemicals, heat, aging, and abrasion. Like NBR, HNBR still holds onto its resistance to oils and fuels.
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